The prostate is a part of the male reproductive system and produces seminal fluid that carries the sperm to the semen. An enlarged prostate, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common problem. The enlarged prostate suppresses the urethra, affecting the urine flow from the bladder. If one suffers from nighttime urination, frequent urination, or urinary tract infections, they may be diagnosed with BPH. Listed below are some strategies to manage an enlarged prostate.

Sesame seeds
Patients with an enlarged prostate have lower levels of zinc in their bodies. Foods like sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, and almonds are rich in zinc that is readily absorbed by the body. Snacking on these nuts and seeds provides the body with the right amount of zinc.

Tomatoes
Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that is present in abundance in tomatoes. Including cooked tomatoes in the diet may help with BPH and help decrease prostatic inflammation. Consuming lycopene with healthy fats enhances its efficacy.

Salmon
Salmon is a rich source of healthy fats. Omega-3 fatty acids are also known for their ability to reduce inflammation. Including fish like salmon, mackerel, and tuna in one’s diet can help with multiple health conditions.

Vegetables
Leafy vegetables are rich in antioxidants and mineral content that are essential for the body. Vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, spinach, onion, and garlic may help fight prostate conditions.

Berries
Like vegetables, berries also are rich sources of antioxidants and protect the body against oxidative damage. Berries like blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are a healthy and tasty way to fight free radicals.

There are different types of treatments available for treating an enlarged prostate. Some popular herbal treatments for treating enlarged prostate are as follows:

Saw palmetto
One of the most popular herbal treatments for enlarged prostate is the use of saw palmetto. There are several studies that indicate that saw palmetto helps reduce the size of the inner lining of the prostate by inhibiting the production of testosterone.

African Plum Extract or Pygeum
The African plum extract has an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect on the urogenital tract because of the high amount of alcohols, fatty acids, and sterols such as the beta-sitosterol. Studies show that having around 100–200 mg of pygeum extract daily or splitting it into half and consuming it twice a day helps in reducing BPH symptoms.

Zishen Yutai Pill or the ZYP
The ZYP is an ancient Chinese mixture of three plants dating back to the 13th century. This is one of the herbal treatments for prostate enlargement that is still being studied for its effectiveness. Research has shown that the Zishen formula can help reduce the occurrence of BPH. However, more studies are being conducted for the same.

Rye-grass pollen
Most of the pharmaceutical supplements that are used for the BPH treatments have rye-grass pollen. Using supplements made from rye-grass pollen is one of the effective herbal treatments for prostate enlargement. Even though this has shown effectiveness in shrinking the prostate, there has not been any large-scale study of the same.

Babassu
This is a species of palm tree commonly seen in Brazil. Many Brazilian tribal communities use the dried and the ground kernels from the tree to treat the symptoms of urogenital problems. The oil from the babassu nuts has also exhibited effectiveness in the production of testosterone. The other parts of the nuts have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics.

Pumpkin seed
Another effective herbal treatment for prostate enlargement involves consuming around 10g of pumpkin seed extract daily. Beta-sitosterol, a compound similar to cholesterol, has been found in the pumpkin seeds. Beta-sitosterol helps in improving the urine flow. It also helps in reducing the amount of urine left in the bladder.

Stinging nettle
Like in the case of pygeum and saw palmetto, stinging nettle also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that are very effective in the treatment of an enlarged prostate. Sometimes, the nettle roots are combined with saw palmetto and are then used.

Lycopene
This natural pigment found in most of the fruits and vegetables has been found to be one of the most effective herbal treatments for prostate enlargement. It helps in slowing the progression of BPH. The lycopene content is higher if the fruit or vegetable is deep pink in color. This antioxidant is found mostly in tomatoes, papaya, watermelon, guava, grapefruit, apricots, red bell pepper, and red cabbage.

Zinc
BPH is likely to increase if the chronic zinc deficiency in your body increases. Intake of dietary zinc or zinc supplements will help in reducing the urine-related symptoms associated with the BPH. Poultry, seeds, nuts, and seafood are some of the sources of zinc.

Green tea
Catechins are antioxidants found in green tea that have shown positive results in the treatment of an enlarged prostate. Green tea also contains caffeine that stimulates the bladder and increases the urge to urinate, which can potentially have a negative effect on BHP symptoms.

Keep in mind that one may have an enlarged prostate without experiencing any BPH symptoms, whereas some others might experience advanced urinary problems without the enlargement of the prostate. Therefore, it is better to consult a doctor if you seem to have any of these symptoms. Moreover, it is recommended to follow the above mentioned herbal treatments for an enlarged prostate after consulting a doctor. Even though this is not a life-threatening disease, it is always better to improve your prostate health, and thereby enhance your urinary health through natural treatments.

Medicines
Apart from natural remedies, the treatment for BPH also depends on the severity of the condition. In some cases, the doctor might prescribe supplements or medications like the ones listed below:

Prosvent Prostate
Made mostly of natural ingredients like saw palmetto and pumpkin seed oil, Prosvent Prostate is a doctor-designed medication to help men suffering from prostate issues. Consisting of 60 doses, the medication promotes healthy prostate and bladder function, and helps improve the patient’s lifestyle.

Havasu Nutrition Saw Palmetto capsules
As opposed to multiple effective ingredients, Havasu Nutrition prostate supplements work with just one active ingredient – saw palmetto. Studies indicate that saw palmetto is capable of reducing inflammation and helping relieve some BPH symptoms.

NOW Supplements Beta-Sitosterol Plant Sterols
NOW Supplements is one of the leading brands when it comes to health supplements. Their prostate-friendly supplement contains Beta-Sitosterol, a powerful antioxidant that helps with inflammation. It may also help relieve some urinary symptoms associated with BPH.

VitalFlow
VitalFlow supplements are made using plant extracts like berries, Japanese mushrooms, and tomato fruit. They help reduce prostate problems like Dihydrotestosterone and inflammation. These supplements also help improve circulation and blood oxygen levels, sexual function, bladder health, and overall immune health. They are clinically tested and safe for daily use. Consistent use for about three months may help show significant improvement in prostate health.

ProstaStream
ProstaStream is a natural supplement prescribed to patients with an enlarged prostate gland. This treatment option is nutritionally-rich and effectively manages symptoms associated with the condition. It contains numerous vitamins, minerals, and plant sterols that work towards the management and prevention of benign prostatic hyperplasia. The standard recommended dosage is two capsules a day. However, you must consult with your doctor before starting with this treatment option.